In the Matter of Lifeline and Link Up Reform and Modernization

A sea change in the Lifeline Program is needed. IIA strongly believes that the Lifeline Program should cover broadband services. As Commissioner Mignon Clyburn has noted, broadband is “the greatest equalizer of our time.” But while broadband access is nearly ubiquitous for upper-income Americans, those with low incomes struggle to achieve comparable connectivity. IIA believes that, if the FCC fails to fundamentally alter the program to cover broadband, then the FCC may inadvertently and unnecessarily jeopardize the program’s future existence.